Happy Birthday To Me!

Wow, I can’t believe I am 46 years old! Last year this time I was in the bottom of a basement in a prison surrounded by incarcerated ladies inmates, eating a prison-made pizza bowl. The crust consisted of crushed Ritz crackers, topped with commissary items that we put together to become our version of a pizza. Although it may not seem like much, it meant a lot to me. That makeshift meal, in a way, symbolized resilience and camaraderie in the toughest of times. It was a moment of finding joy in the little things, a skill that has stayed with me ever since.

Oh, what a difference a year makes! Wow, it’s all I can say. I’m speechless. I’m absolutely blessed. I’m overwhelmed with joy, happiness, love, abundance, creativity, beauty. I’m four today. Happy birthday to me, bitch I made it! I am just grateful for life, for my health, for my strength. I’m grateful for love. I’m grateful for my family, my friends. I’m just grateful today.

Thank God for how you brought me through. I look forward to another trip around the Sun, another amazing year. I’m not just growing older; I’m growing in grace, I’m growing stronger. I’m gaining more clarity, more love, and a deeper sense of purpose.

This journey, from the basement of a prison to the freedom and warmth of my home, has been nothing short of miraculous. Every morning I wake up, I'm reminded of how far I've come. The fresh air, the ability to see the sunrise, to walk in a park, to make a cup of coffee just the way I like it – these are not just mundane parts of daily life for me; they are reminders of freedom and the many blessings I now have.

I remember the days when hope seemed like a distant dream, when the walls around me felt like they were closing in. But even in those moments, I learned the power of hope and the strength of the human spirit. I learned that even in the most challenging circumstances, there is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to prepare for a better future.

Now, as I stand on the other side of those challenging times, I'm filled with a sense of purpose. I want to share my story, to inspire others who may be facing their own struggles. I want to show that no matter where you've been, or what you've been through, there is always a chance for redemption, for change, and for growth.

As I look forward to the year ahead, I'm excited about the possibilities. I plan to delve into new projects, explore new passions, and continue to build relationships with those around me. I want to give back to the community, to be a source of support and inspiration for those who need it.

My birthday wish this year is not just for myself, but for everyone who is striving for a better life. I wish for strength, hope, and the realization that it’s never too late to turn your life around.

To celebrate this special day, my first birthday since leaving prison, I've decided to do something extraordinary, something I've been pondering over for quite some time. Today, I want to share with you a piece of my heart – a sneak peek into my upcoming book, 'Letters to My Daughters from the Inside.'

Happy birthday to me!

This book is a heartfelt collection of letters I penned to my daughters during my time behind bars, letters filled with raw emotion and truth, which I never mustered the courage to send. But now, I'm bringing them into the light, revealing my innermost thoughts, fears, and experiences. These letters are more than just words; they are a mother’s love and wisdom, shared with the most important people in my life – my daughters.

So, here's to a new chapter, a new year, and a new beginning!

Here's to being 46 – a testament to the fact that life can always get better, that we are all capable of overcoming our past, and that each new year can bring more joy, more love, and more fulfillment than the last.

Happy Birthday to me. Here's to growing stronger, wiser, and more loving with each passing year. Cheers to new beginnings and endless possibilities! 🎉🎂🎈